Three Arrested in Human Trafficking and Sexual Assault of 14-Year-Old New Jersey Runaway

Shreveport Police Uncover Trafficking Ring Involving Missing Teen from New Jersey

A shocking multi-state investigation has led to the arrests of three individuals accused of trafficking and sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl from New Jersey who had been reported as a runaway.

According to the Shreveport Police Department (SPD), officers located the missing teen during an operation that uncovered evidence of sexual exploitation and human trafficking. Detectives from the Juvenile Services and Sex Crimes Unit revealed that the girl had been subjected to violent sexual encounters involving multiple suspects before being rescued.

The investigation has drawn cooperation from the Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office and the New Jersey State Police, who are now working jointly to determine how the victim was transported across state lines and forced into trafficking.

“Individuals who exploit and harm children will be held fully accountable under the law,” the SPD emphasized in a public statement, vowing to pursue all perpetrators involved in the case.

Arrests Made Following Multi-Agency Operation

On October 22, SPD’s Special Response Team executed an arrest warrant for Daiquan Blackman at an apartment complex near Forum Drive and Hearn Avenue. Following his arrest, two additional suspects were charged for their alleged roles in the trafficking and sexual abuse of the 14-year-old.

The three suspects and their preliminary charges include:

• Daiquan Blackman — Two counts of contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile and two counts of indecent behavior with juveniles.

• Malina Caldwell — Two counts of contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile, one count of indecent behavior with juveniles, and one count of felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile.

• Keyana Anderson — One count of indecent behavior with a juvenile, one count of felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile, and two counts of contributing to the delinquency of juveniles.

Authorities said that additional charges, including rape and human trafficking, are expected as the investigation continues.

A Multi-State Case with Deep Implications

Law enforcement officials believe the teen was targeted and groomed online before being transported from New Jersey to Louisiana. The case underscores the alarming trend of interstate human trafficking, where minors are lured from their homes and forced into sexual exploitation.

Investigators are working to determine how the victim, who had been reported missing in New Jersey, came into contact with the suspects. The New Jersey State Police and federal law enforcement agencies are collaborating to track digital evidence, including communications and travel records.

This case highlights the vulnerability of runaway youth, many of whom fall prey to traffickers within 48 hours of leaving home, according to national statistics. These victims are often manipulated through social media, online games, and messaging platforms, where predators use false identities to gain their trust.

Human Trafficking of Minors — A Widespread and Growing Crisis

Human trafficking remains one of the most pervasive crimes across the United States, with thousands of minors falling victim each year. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) reports that one in six endangered runaways are likely victims of sex trafficking.

In New Jersey, the problem has intensified in recent years due to proximity to major transportation hubs like Newark, Trenton, and Camden, which make the state a target for trafficking networks. Victims are often coerced into performing sexual acts through threats, drugs, or manipulation, leaving them traumatized and afraid to seek help.

Attorney General Matthew Platkin has emphasized New Jersey’s commitment to combatting trafficking through stronger interagency coordination and survivor-focused interventions. Cases like this one demonstrate the need for cross-state collaboration to ensure traffickers cannot evade justice by moving victims across borders.

Supporting Survivors and Ensuring Accountability

The 14-year-old victim has since been placed in protective care and is receiving medical and psychological support. Experts note that recovery for trafficking survivors requires long-term, trauma-informed care to help them process emotional pain and rebuild trust.

Advocates stress the importance of reporting suspicious activity, such as adults traveling with unrelated minors or children who appear disoriented, fearful, or controlled by others. Public vigilance plays a crucial role in identifying victims before they disappear into trafficking networks.

Legal Representation for Trafficking Survivors in New Jersey

Survivors of human trafficking and sexual abuse have the right to seek justice both criminally and civilly. Through civil litigation, victims can hold their traffickers and any complicit individuals or institutions accountable for their suffering.

Joseph L. Messa, Jr., Esq., managing attorney of Survivors of Abuse NJ, is among the leading advocates for survivors of sexual abuse and human trafficking across the state. His firm provides confidential legal support for survivors seeking to recover compensation and rebuild their lives.

“Every case of human trafficking is a tragedy that demands justice,” said Joseph L. Messa, Jr., Esq. “No child should ever endure this kind of exploitation. Our mission is to hold every responsible party accountable and help survivors reclaim their voices.”

How to Get Help

If you or someone you know may be a victim of human trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “HELP” to 233733 for immediate assistance. Survivors of Abuse NJ also offers free and confidential consultations to help victims understand their legal rights and options for recovery.

Source:

https://www.ksla.com/2025/10/24/three-charged-trafficking-14-year-old-runaway-new-jersey-spd-says/